The Oyo State command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested a 28-year-old housewife over alleged human trafficking.

In a statement on Saturday in Ibadan, the command’s spokesman, Samuel Opebiyi, said that efforts were ongoing to apprehend her accomplice and husband, who is on the run.
Mr Opebiyi said the housewife and her husband allegedly trafficked a 17-year-old girl to Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) for prostitution.
He said the suspect was arrested on January 22, after the victim’s sister reported the case to the command’s anti-human trafficking unit on January 20.

Mr Opebiyi said that the preliminary investigation indicated that the offence was committed on November 25, 2025, when the suspect and her husband orchestrated the trafficking of the victim to Libya for prostitution.

“While investigations into the full details and network of the illicit operation are still ongoing, the command confirmed that the victim was allegedly lured with false promises before being trafficked abroad.
“NSCDC, Oyo State Command, further established that the victim was brought into contact with the alleged syndicate through one Rodiat, an apprentice at the suspect’s shop, where she sells shoes, bags and other accessories, located within Ifeleye, Ogunpa Market, Ibadan,
“The victim reportedly approached Rodiat, expressing her desire to secure a job opportunity, after which she was introduced to the suspects,” he said.

Mr Opebiyi said the state NSCDC commandant, Augustine Padonu, urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity relating to human trafficking to the corps or sister agencies for swift response.
Mr Padonu reiterated the command’s commitment to combating human trafficking and other related offences.
The commandant said the suspect would be charged to court while efforts are being intensified to apprehend the fleeing husband.
(NAN)